If, like some commentators, you have pointed to recent remarks made by “Pope” Leo XIV during his trip to Africa as evidence of a supposed correction or moderation of the post-conciliar trajectory, you should probably hold your horses.>A large section of journalists and commentators, including some from the Trad Inc. camp, have presented his warning against mixing the faith with superstition, his refusal to be drawn into political symbolism, and his more cautious tone on migration as signs that the current “pontificate” may place limits on excesses associated with progressive interpretations of the Church’s mission.>Such conclusions are, of course, laughable. Prevost’s words, however carefully chosen and pious, must be weighed against his actions and the structures he continues to put in place. The same “pontificate” that issued these cautions continues to advance the synodal program at every level, including the preparation of the continental evaluation assemblies I am about to discuss. There has been no retreat from the principles of synodality, no repudiation of its underlying assumptions, and no indication that its implementation will be slowed or reconsidered. On the contrary, the process is being institutionalized and expanded.

Originally published in Radical Fidelity. Read original article